The plot itself is quite linear, in that the end result will always lead to the same point - at least there are some options along the way: Do I steal some precious gas from the Protoss and collect the cash? Or do I rescue refugees trapped on a Zerg infested planet?
As far as linear plots go, this one is interesting. It certainly made me want to go back and read about the history of
Starcraft again. How Jim came to where he is now? His relationship with Kerrigan (who has since being infected by the Zerg and is known as the Queen of Blades); his work as a Marshall and more. The lore is deep and intricate.
StarCraft II is worth the cash for the single-player alone, I’d say. I’ve loved every moment of it.
StarCraft II is about a lot more than just the single-player though. The main part of the game is the online play.
Online Time
Here’s where things got tough for me. I suck at multiplayer RTS games, they’re just too damned hard. And, when I lose, I lose big.
Firstly though, how does it work?. When you first enter the multiplayer section, you get an option to enter the practice league. I’d strongly advise that if you’re new to the game, get in there and get practising. You’ll likely still get whooped, but it won’t be long before you start to realise where you’re going
wrong. The good thing about any beating is that you learn from your mistakes, and this is made a lot easier by the end of game stats. You can view exactly at what time your opponent built certain structures and units. The replay function is a vital learning tool, as it allows you to view how your opponent played, and then learn to counter that tactic.
The months of beta testing have apparently made this an extremely balanced and fine tuned experience. Something I’ll never likely see the fruits of, but thousands of advanced players will. If you want to go down the road, enjoy it. As rewarding as online gaming can be,
StarCraft II is right up there.
Battlenet Stations
The battlenet system itself is remarkable. This is the better part for me, because instead of competing with millions of brilliant players, I get to compete with my friends, none of who are great!
Altogether, Blizzard hasn't disappointed on this one.
StarCraft II is
StarCraft with a lick of paint. It’s such a tired phrase in computer games these days, “more of the same”, but if there is ever a game that could get away with it, it is this.
Conclusion
If you’re a fan of StarCraft, I know you’ve already got this game, and you’ve probably already panned players the likes of me in online mode. If you are one of those though, do yourself a favour, take a break, and enjoy the single-player. If you’re new to the series but want a modern day RTS to play, this is the only place to be. If you aren’t any of the above, then please, step away from Counter Strike, Half Life, Football Manager, World of Warcraft, whatever it is, just step away, buy this game, and love it.
SPOnG Score: 95%
